Eton mess

Eton Mess is a cherished English dessert that traces its origins to Eton College, with its earliest recorded mention in 1893. This delightful treat is a simple yet delectable combination of strawberries, meringue, and whipped cream, often savored during the annual cricket match between Eton College and Harrow School.

Initially, Eton Mess was offered in the school's "sock shop" and was made with either strawberries or bananas, mixed with ice cream or cream. The addition of meringue came later, introducing a delightful crunch to the dessert. While various fruits can be used, strawberries are the traditional choice that imparts Eton Mess its classic flavor.

A similar dessert, known as Lancing Mess, is made with bananas and served at Lancing College in West Sussex. The term "mess" in Eton Mess might refer to its somewhat disordered appearance or simply denote "a quantity of food" or "a mixture of ingredients cooked or eaten together."

Interestingly, the term "Eton Mess" has also found its way into political commentary. It is sometimes used to describe internal conflicts within the UK Conservative Party, as many of its members were educated at Eton College.